This article is part of our “Tween Tech” series, where we explore the social media platforms that dominate our children’s lives. Be sure to check out our previous discussions on apps like Jott, Snapchat, Instagram, and more.
What is Facebook?
Launched in 2004 as a networking tool for Harvard students, Facebook has evolved into the largest social media platform globally, boasting 1.49 billion users by mid-2015.
Why Do Kids Love It?
Children often become aware of Facebook long before they create their own accounts, frequently observing their parents document their lives online. Given that many parents are familiar and comfortable with Facebook, it often becomes the first social media platform they permit their children to join. Notably, two-thirds of kids who use only one social network are on Facebook. While some media outlets argue that Facebook has lost its cool factor among younger users, the statistics tell a different story. It remains a favorite, and as tweens create accounts, they encourage their friends to join as well.
Why Is It Significant?
Facebook serves as a “gateway drug” to the vast world of social media. For many tweens, it represents their first genuine experience with social networking, making it a safe environment to cultivate healthy online habits that can carry over to other platforms.
How Many Kids Are On It?
According to a recent Pew Research Center study, 71% of youth aged 13 to 17 are active on Facebook. Since the platform requires users to be at least 13 to register (or to lie about their age), there’s no reliable data on younger children.
How Do Kids Use Facebook?
From what I’ve observed among the tweens and teens I know, their usage mirrors that of their parents: sharing photos, memes, staying connected with friends, and indulging in cute cat videos.
How Can Parents Keep an Eye on It?
The most effective way to monitor your child’s Facebook activity is to create your own account and request to befriend them. Keep in mind that this isn’t foolproof; a determined tween can easily hide their online activity. Before solidifying your Facebook friendship, have an open discussion about online interaction rules. For instance, while wishing them a happy birthday on their wall might be acceptable, they may prefer you not to comment on every conversation they have. If any issues arise from their posts, address them in person rather than online.
A Little Reassurance for Parents:
Compared to platforms like Snapchat or Yik Yak, Facebook presents fewer risks for tweens and is more manageable for parents to supervise. Most parents are likely to have their own Facebook accounts and understand the platform, making it easier to provide guidance as their children navigate it.
Facebook also has several features that allow users to control their visibility. Kids can choose who to add as friends, hide posts from certain individuals, and use privacy settings to manage who sees their content. Although reviewing these settings together may be tedious, it’s a crucial step in ensuring both parties understand how they function. This process also opens up discussions about what is appropriate to share online and with whom.
Potential Concerns for Parents:
Tweens don’t need to be tech-savvy to restrict the audience for their posts, so being friends on Facebook doesn’t guarantee that parents see everything. Private messages and groups provide additional avenues for kids to communicate without parental oversight. The only way to monitor these activities is by checking the child’s account directly. Private groups appear on the right side of the screen, and messages can be accessed through the chat bubble icon, although they can be easily deleted. A determined child might even create a secret profile to evade parental scrutiny. The best safeguard is to maintain open, honest conversations about expectations and to keep communication lines active.
Common issues that tweens may encounter on Facebook include hurtful comments, feeling left out of events, and becoming overly concerned with likes and friend counts. Parents can share their own experiences to help guide tweens in navigating social media’s challenges.
This article was initially published on October 26, 2005.
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Summary:
Facebook remains a popular social media platform for tweens, providing a space for connection and self-expression. While it offers some safety features, parents must remain vigilant and maintain open communication with their children about online behavior and privacy settings.